AMBULANCE bosses are urging people not to over indulge to the point they need medical help this Christmas.

East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) says the combination of freezing temperatures, icy roads, festive get-togethers, and a hint of overindulgence leads to a dramatic increase in 999 calls every winter.

In December last year the service received 45,645 calls, 3772 more 999 calls than the previous month.

Dr Trevor Mills, medical director for EMAS, said: "We plan ahead for the winter by preparing our vehicles and factoring in a potential surge of calls.

"We want people to take the same forward-planning approach in their homes and for their families to stay safe and healthy this winter."